Prairie Village, Kansas, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Narem Palomino Pardo, a master’s student from Bolivia, is making a significant impact at Claridge Court, a retirement community in Prairie Village. Through performances and personal connections, he fosters relationships with residents, creating an inviting atmosphere. Living at the community as part of a unique residency program, Palomino Pardo enhances the lives of seniors with music, memorable events, and daily interactions that bridge generational divides.
Prairie Village, Kansas – Narem Palomino Pardo, a 31-year-old master’s student from Cochabamba, Bolivia, is enriching the lives of residents at Claridge Court, a retirement community in Prairie Village, through music and personal connections. Since moving to Kansas City in 2022 to pursue a master’s degree in music at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), Palomino Pardo has taken part in a unique residency program that combines academic pursuits with community engagement.
As the third student under a partnership agreement between UMKC and Claridge Court, Palomino Pardo lives at the community for a year with his expenses covered. In return, he is contractually obligated to perform monthly concerts, although he frequently plays the piano and interacts with residents beyond this requirement. This innovative idea was inspired by a successful residency program in Des Moines, Iowa, where a Baker University student also lived within a community.
Claridge Court CEO Jesse Jantzen and resident Charles Horner were instrumental in establishing this program, aimed at fostering relationships between young musicians and senior residents. While the agreement requires him to perform once a month, Palomino Pardo regularly practices in the lobby, taking daily musical requests from the residents, thereby creating an inviting atmosphere.
Palomino Pardo has been immersed in music since he started piano lessons at age 10. He holds a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Arkansas, which he earned in 2022. His repertoire mainly consists of classical music, but he also creates personal interpretations of popular songs, including a unique rendition of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.” Residents often enjoy singing along to classics, such as “Misty” by Erroll Garner, which brings back cherished memories from their past.
Despite being a newcomer to the community, Palomino Pardo has gained a reputation for his charm, attentiveness, and ability to remember residents’ names. He frequently engages with them by inquiring about their days and offering his assistance whenever needed. New resident Sharen Diegelman even donated her piano to him, believing he should have the best possible instrument for his practice after hearing him perform.
Furthermore, Palomino Pardo recently organized a special event at Claridge Court to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Bolivia’s independence. This event highlighted traditional Bolivian meals and music, creating a culturally immersive experience for the residents. Attendees praised the Bolivian-themed celebration, describing it as a unique and fulfilling evening.
Residents have expressed their enjoyment of having Palomino Pardo among them, often referring to him as a grandchild figure. His consistent presence and dedication to fostering community connections through music have made a significant impact on the lives of those at Claridge Court.
Background of the Program
The partnership between UMKC and Claridge Court aims to create engaging experiences for both students and elderly residents. This arrangement encourages young musicians to not only develop their talents but also to build valuable relationships with members of the community. Following its success in other locations, this program continues to garner interest as a model worth emulating.
Conclusion
Narem Palomino Pardo’s innovative approach to music and community engagement serves as a testament to the power of human connection and the role music plays in bridging generational divides. His ongoing efforts at Claridge Court contribute to a more vibrant and interactive retirement community.
FAQ
Who is Narem Palomino Pardo?
Narem Palomino Pardo is a 31-year-old master’s student from Cochabamba, Bolivia, residing at Claridge Court, a retirement community in Prairie Village, Kansas.
What is the partnership program between UMKC and Claridge Court?
The partnership program allows music students to live at Claridge Court for a year with their expenses covered in exchange for performing monthly concerts.
What type of music does Narem Palomino Pardo perform?
Palomino Pardo primarily plays classical works, as well as personal interpretations of popular songs like “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.”
How do residents feel about Narem’s presence in the community?
Residents express delight in having him among them, often referring to him as a grandchild figure due to his charm and attentiveness to their well-being.
What significant event did Narem organize at Claridge Court?
Palomino Pardo hosted a special event at Claridge Court honoring the 200th anniversary of Bolivia’s independence, featuring traditional meals and music.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Narem Palomino Pardo | 31-year-old master’s student from Cochabamba, Bolivia |
| Residency Program | Partnership between UMKC and Claridge Court, allowing students to live at the community |
| Performances | Contractually obligated to perform monthly, frequently plays in the community’s lobby |
| Musical Background | Taught music in Bolivia, earned a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Arkansas |
| Community Impact | Residents enjoy interaction; some refer to him as a grandchild figure |
| Special Event | Hosted an event celebrating Bolivia’s independence with traditional meals and music |
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Additional Resources
- Kansas City News
- Wikipedia: Prairie Village, Kansas
- In Kansas City: Summer Fun
- Google Search: music community engagement
- The Berkshire Edge
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Music
- Fayetteville Flyer
- Google News: community music engagement
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
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